Posted on 6th Jul
Students from two schools have become pioneers for online safety awareness with their films, that were runners-up in a national competition.
Following the success of this year’s Safer Internet Day in February, online safety charity Childnet asked young people to create a short film or storyboard exploring the theme of “Time to talk! How can we support each other online?”
The Childnet Film Competition, renowned for celebrating young talents in the world of filmmaking, attracted participants from across the UK.
Tuxford Academy (above) came second in the secondary school category of the competition, and Sir Donald Bailey Academy, Newark, (top) was third in the primary school category.
The panel of judges included industry leaders from organisations such as BAFTA, the BBC, the British Board of Film Classification, the British Film Institute, Disney, and Motion Pictures Association.
Judges said Tuxford Academy’s film, Masked, was very relatable for young people and had proactive solutions around positive comments.
They described Sir Donald Bailey Academy’s film, Don’t Be Followed!, as visually arresting with a strong storytelling concept.
Will Gardner, chief executive of Childnet and director of the UK Safer Internet Centre, said: “A huge congratulations to Tuxford Academy and Sir Donald Bailey Academy.
“Their success will undoubtedly inspire and encourage other schools and young filmmakers to harness their talents and contribute to the growing conversation around online safety.
“This year’s Safer Internet Day research showed that young people want to make a difference through speaking up, helping their friends, and promoting online safety, and I believe all the winners, finalists and entrants entries we saw reflected that spirit of online safety awareness.”
In its 14th year, the Childnet Film Competition remains the UK’s only nationwide online safety film competition for young people.
All entries must contain a positive message and be able to educate other young people.
Winning and shortlisted films can be viewed at www.childnet.com/film
